Defendants are often released from jail, or given suspended jail time and placed on probation to the Court. When they are given the terms of the probation, they are instructed if they violate any of those terms they may receive all the underlying jail time. The penalties for a violation often depend on how the Judge who did the underlying sentence views a violation. Many judges automatically impose the underlying jail time because they view probation itself as a second chance.
An example of a harsh sentence for a violation is reflected in a recent case rendered by Judge Tisdale in the Circuit Court of Frederick County. In 2006, Colin Johnson stabbed his girlfriend. He was found guilty of first degree assault and sentenced to serve 5 years of a 20 year sentence. After being released, the defendant sent a text message to the victim. The text was not threatening or inflammatory. In fact, it read "sorry about all this. Call me when you get a chance." The victim and the defendant had a child together. Nevertheless, the Court imposed the entire fifteen years for the violation.
If you, a family member, or someone you know has been accused of violating probation or if you would like more information on car accidents, please visit us on the web at http://www.portnerandshure.com
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